Psalm 80 Genesis 44:18–34 1 Corinthians 7:25–31 Mark 5:21–43
Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.—Hebrews 13:5
This is the passage I carry with me always. It is the first thought when I awaken, and it allows me to sleep at night.
I began my teaching career through the Teacher Corps, working in the inner city with very young children. Much of my later life has been working internationally, also with very young children. A universal truth is that all young children need warmth and security and desire the protective arms of a loving parent.
And, yes, children will test their wings, rebel and flee—and they must in order to grow. But the idea of a welcoming parent with open arms is ever so wonderful.
I have been raised to believe that during Lent we are encouraged to search our souls, reflect, and take stock. How comforting that Christ’s promise to not forsake us allows us to strive to be honest in our search of self!
I may flee and rebel, but He stays constant. He is the same “yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).
The idea of a welcoming Heavenly Father who will never leave me and who will never forsake me is my lifeline and something I believe in with all of my heart.
My prayer for you this Lent is that we all experience His warm and loving arms embracing us this day—and every day.
Amen.
–Susan Lewis